Indiana starts website to combat prescription drug abuse

The state of Indiana is joining the nationwide effort to battle prescription drug abuse by launching a website intended to help consumers recognize symptoms of addiction. The new website, www.BitterPill.IN.gov, will offer information on where to go for help and how to properly dispose of expired or unwanted medication.

"Statistics show that abuse and misuse among all age groups is a serious problem in Indiana and that's a bitter pill for our state to swallow," said Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller in a press release. "Whether you are seeking ideas on how to talk to your teenager about whether they are abusing prescription drugs, searching for help for yourself or a loved one or just want to know how to properly dispose of your unwanted medications, this new website serves as a one-stop shop."

According to the Indiana State Department of Health, there were 718 deaths in Indiana from accidental drug overdoses in 2011, an increase from 654 the previous year. The state also ranked fifth in the nation in 2010 and 2011 for nonmedical use of prescription pain relievers among people age 12 and older.

Zoeller also said that young people are most at risk for abusing prescription medications because they may mistakenly believe because they are administered by doctors and pharmacists, they are safe. The website will also offer suggestions on how parents should talk to their teenagers about this issue.

The fight against prescription drug abuse begins at home. If you suspect your teen of struggling with addiction, now is the time to act. Contact Intervention Services to be put in contact with an experienced interventionist who can get your child into an effective treatment program.